Effect of yoga on obesity, hypertension and lipid profile

In this 3-month randomized study, investigators examined the effects of a yoga intervention on weight, blood pressure, and lipid profile in 50 male patients. At the end of the study, they found a statistically significant decrease in systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and body-mass index (BMI).

Study participants (age range, 35 to 55 years) exhibited one, two, or all three of the inclusion criteria: obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. All were assigned to a daily, 1-hour yoga session at a local yoga center. The session consisted of 30 minutes of pranayama and 30 minutes of asana.

Measurements of the study variables taken before and after the 3-month intervention showed a significant decreases in SBP (baseline mean, 135.6 ± 4.39 vs 125.18 ±9.29 at 3 mo), DBP (baseline mean, 88.86 ±3.51 vs 83.2 ±48 at 3 mo), and BMI (baseline mean, 27.040 ±2.03 vs 26.278±1.94 at 3 mo). Decreases in total cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides were also observed, but were not statistically significant; there was also an observed but non-significant increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

“Yoga provides one of the best means of self-improvement and gaining full potential of one’s body, mind and soul,” investigators observed. “Yoga and certain asanas have beneficial effect on . . . cardiovascular risk factors like obesity, hypertension and dyslipidemia. Randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm and elucidate the effects of standardized yoga programs. There is a need to provide a better recognition of yoga by the health care community as a complement to conventional medical care.”